MASTERING THE HOUSEHOLD ROUTINE

Consider the task of managing a home.  "There are many occasions when you wish you had a man around," admits one divorcee,  "like when your car starts making noises and you don't know where they are coming from."  Men who are recently divorced  or widowed may likewise be bewildered by the multitude of household tasks they must now  perform.  For children, domestic disarray adds to feelings of instability and insecurity. 

What can help?  Note the example set by the "capable wife" described at Proverbs 31:10-31,  the breadth of her accomplishments is remarkable -buying, selling, sewing, cooking, investing in real estate, farming, and managing a business.  Her secret?  She was diligent, working late and getting up early to start her activities.  And she was well organized, delegating some tasks and using her own hands to care for others.  No wonder she won praise!

If you are a single parent, be conscientious about your domestic responsibilities. Find satisfaction in such work, for this does much to add to the happiness of your children.  However, proper planning and organization are essential.  The Bible says:  "The plans of the diligent one surely make for advantage."  (Proverbs 21:5) One single father admitted:  "I tend not to think about meals until I am hungry."  But planned meals tend to be more nutritious and  appealing than those hastily improvised.  You may also have to learn to use your hands in new ways.  By consulting knowledgeable friend, how-to books, and helpful professional, some single mothers have been able to tackle painting, plumbing and simple auto repairs. 

Is it fair to ask children to help out?  One single mother reasoned:  "You want to make up for the absence of the other parent by making it easy for the children."  That may be understandable but perhaps not always in the bes interests of the child.  God-fearing youths of Bible times were assigned appropriate chores.  (Genesis 37:2; Song of Solomon 1:6)  So, although being careful not to overload your children, you will be wise to assign them tasks such as taking care of the dishes and keeping their rooms clean. Why not perform some chores together?  This can be very enjoyable. 

Next time: THE CHALLENGE OF MAKING A LIVING

From the book:  THE SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS, 1996